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The Ultimate TRUE TIRE SIZE Database

Before I get this started, it needs to be made clear that when it comes to things like lift kits and tires you can run with them, EVERY manufacturer, shop and person in the industry will always refer to what is written on the sidewall and NOT the true height of the tire. In other words, if a 2.5" lift kit states it'll clear 35x12.50R17 tires, they are referring to what is written on the sidewall and NOT a tire that has an actual measurement of 35". In order to get a tire that tall, you would need to be running a 37x12.50R17. Why is that you might as? Because ALL tires have a true measurement that is SMALLER than what is advertised. The ONLY time true tire height matters is when you're recalibrating your speedometer as that's what your speed sensors will be reading.

With all that said, I am asking all of you to help me create a database that can help everyone better understand the difference between advertised tire size and true tire size. To do this, I would be grateful if you could please make a post and based on the following guidelines:

TRUE Tire Size Database Guidelines1. State the brand of your tire.
2. State the size of your tire as written on the sidewall.
3. With your tire installed, aired up to 30 PSI and with the full weight of your Jeep on it, use a tape measure to measure to the edge of the tire's shoulder (NOT the highest point on the tread) and photograph it as shown in the sample below:

4. State the TRUE measurement you are seeing as well as how many miles you have on the tires.

It is important that everyone follow the exact same metric in order for us to obtain an accurate database. Please let me know if you have any questions and thank you for your help

Please do add a photo as that's more what I'm after than anything. Also, what's stated on your sidewall is 285/70R17 - NOT 32". I would prefer that people not include what they think their tire size is supposed to be or what is stated on the manufacturer's website. This will help keep the information here as objective as possible. Last but not least, I'd like you to verify that you are running 30 PSI as is instructed and we need to know how many miles you have on them.

The Ultimate TRUE TIRE SIZE Database

Originally Posted by wayoflife

Please do add a photo as that's more what I'm after than anything. Also, what's stated on your sidewall is 285/70R17 - NOT 32". I would prefer that people not include what they think their tire size is supposed to be or what is stated on the manufacturer's website. This will help keep the information here as objective as possible. Last but not least, I'd like you to verify that you are running 30 PSI as is instructed and we need to know how many miles you have on them.

Thanks for your help.

Ha ha I'll change it for sure! And I went to the good year site to find what they say the side was is supposed to be and that's where I got the 33" from. and I will take a picture once I get home today!

Edit to have changed previous post

I was running 30psi when I did the original test when I calibrated my tires. I'll take it an update with complete accuracy tonight when I get home from work!

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“wayoflife” is a moniker that I’ve been using for 20 years now and I chose it because I think it does a great job of explaining, in simple terms, the passion I have for Jeeps and the Jeep way of life. This is a lifestyle that transcends age, gender and race as the only thing you need to be a part of it is a love for the outdoors, a desire to explore, a yearning to take on a challenge and a will to conquer it. Over the years, Cindy and I have attempted to capture the essence of this lifestyle through photographs and videos and share it with others around the world. And, this is how WAYALIFE was born.